In the summer of 2013, the LRG launched the Rare 13 campaign, highlighting the diverse faces of GIST by drawing attention to the fact that 13 people are diagnosed with GIST every day (and that’s just within the United States!). The Rare 13 campaign was so successful that for 2014 we decided it was time for GIST to step into the spotlight and have its own global day of recognition and on Sunday, July 13, 2014, we celebrated the very first global GIST Awareness Day. We were humbled and heartened by the overwhelming support we received.
The ultimate goal of GIST Awareness Day is to bring so much attention to GIST that knowing what it is will no longer be so “rare”. GIST Awareness Day serves as the yearly pinnacle of our education, awareness and advocacy efforts and provides those outside the GIST community a chance to learn about and lend their support to this important cause. You can also get involved in raising awareness about GIST. Share your story, share facts and information about GIST, and encourage others to get involved. Use your social media platforms to promote GIST Awareness Day and support patients with this rare cancer.
But GIST Awareness Day is about more than just education and awareness. It’s also an opportunity to take action. You can support the fight against GIST by donating to organizations like The Life Raft Group, which provides vital resources and support to patients with GIST. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against GIST. Join us in raising awareness, promoting understanding, and supporting patients and their families. Together, we can create a brighter future for those affected by GIST. #thrivingtogether
GIST Awareness Day, July 13th, 2023
The theme of GAD this year is “Thriving Together”.
Our goal for GIST Awareness Day (which happens during Sarcoma Awareness Month) is to educate as many people as possible about this rare disease, about why mutational testing is an imperative part of a GISTers journey, and to show the world that there is a powerful advocacy contingent working on behalf of patients and researchers to further research, trials, and new medical interventions for GIST.
Here are some suggested activities to show your support of GIST patients, or how you as a GISTer, can bring awareness to this disease:
Social Media
Fundraising
GIST Awareness Day (GAD) Events are held across the world each year on July 13th – if you are interested in organizing an event, please contact Diana Nieves, Chief Development & Involvement Officer, dnieves@liferaftgroup.org
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